When Is the Best Time
The very best weeks for the garden are the end of May and beginning of June. At this time of the year, the huge rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. My visit was at the end of June, and I only got an idea that it must be magnificent a few weeks earlier.
The castle and garden are open to the public after Easter until the end of October from 10 a.m., and the last admission is at 5 p.m.
It gets crowded at midday. To enjoy the castle and the garden with few people only arrive early at 10 a.m.
Tours to the private apartments are offered once a year for several weeks by arrangement only.
Best Months to Visit
Location and Tips
The castle is well known from Downtown Abbey Christmas episode 2012 and was called "Duneagle Castle".
The foundation stone of Inveraray Castle was laid in 1746 and was finished 43 years later. The today's castle is the result of a fire in 1877. The castle is still the home of the Duke of Argyll and his family. Several rooms at the ground floor, first floor, and the kitchen at the basement can be visited, The traditional tea room and gift shop are also situated at the basement, There is a huge parking space for buses and cars. The entrance fee for adults is 11 Pound (2017) for the castle and garden. Plan at least 1 1/2 hours to explore the castle, garden and the woodland walk with trees over hundred years old. An old silver fir was planted in 1880.
Inveraray village is located on the banks of Loch Fyne, almost 40 miles from Oban and 60 miles from Glasgow and easy to reach by bus.
More information about Inveraray Castle
In walking distance is Inveraray with a variety of accommodations. I spent a night at the "Brambles of Inveraray" and enjoyed a healthy rich breakfast and lunch as well.
